Compact actuator
IAI RCD micro cylinder compact actuator
Micro ROBO Cylinder with a newly developed brushless DC motor, a 12 mm cross-section and a body as short as 60 mm, moving at up to 300 mm/s with up to 1 G acceleration.
Key specifications
| Linear speed (max) | 300 mm/s |
|---|---|
| Acceleration | up to 1 G |
| Body | 12 mm cross-section, from 60 mm long |
| Motor | Brushless DC |
Summarised in our own words from IAI Corporation's published data; series maxima, individual models vary. Last checked 2026-10-30. Source 1
Notes on this data
Stroke, push force and supply voltage are in the RCD catalogue, not on the page read.
Specify Motion is not affiliated with IAI Corporation. IAI and RCD micro cylinder are used only to identify the product. Comparisons use published figures; always confirm against the current datasheet.
Typical applications
Alternatives that meet or exceed these figures
Engineers often come to us with an IAI part number and leave with an alternative that is easier to source, quicker to deliver or a better fit for the machine. These 3 series from our supply network are the closest match on published figures.
12/24 VDC acme leadscrew push/pull actuator with internal gearbox and built-in limit switches, for light-industrial, mobility and furniture automation.
View G-Series Leadscrew Linear Actuator →Economical stainless-tube electric rod actuator in sizes 10, 15 and 20, aimed at replacing pneumatic cylinders for gating, sorting and diverting; SS1/SS2 options give an all-stainless, IP69K washdown build.
| Published maximum | RCD micro cylinder | ERD (incl. ERD-SS1 / ERD-SS2 stainless… |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 2,224 N |
| Stroke | — | 610 mm |
| Speed | 300 mm/s | 1,016 mm/s meets or exceeds |
All-316 stainless electric rod actuator with IP69K washdown rating and ball or roller screws, designed to hygienic guidelines for higher-force food, beverage and pharma tasks. Replaces the ERD22/25/30 hygienic sizes.
| Published maximum | RCD micro cylinder | RSH Hygienic Rod Actuator |
|---|---|---|
| Force | — | 35,330 N |
| Stroke | — | 1,219 mm |
| Speed | 300 mm/s | 500 mm/s meets or exceeds |
Figures are the highest published for each series and are not always measured the same way. A higher figure is not automatically a better choice: mounting, duty cycle, feedback, connectors and approvals matter too. An engineer will check the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What a compact actuator is
A compact actuator is a self-contained electric linear actuator, typically with a low-voltage brushed DC motor, a gear stage and an acme or ball screw driving a rod. Most include built-in limit switches and can be powered by simply connecting 12 or 24 V DC, reversing polarity to change direction. Options often include position feedback by potentiometer, Hall sensors or encoders, and onboard control electronics. They are designed for simple, cost-effective movement rather than high-precision servo control.
When engineers choose a compact actuator
Choose a compact actuator for intermittent adjustments such as opening, lifting, tilting and positioning in mobility, medical furniture, agricultural and light industrial equipment. Installation is simple and cost is low. The trade-offs are duty cycle, speed and precision: many units are rated for intermittent duty, typically around 25% on time, and brushed motors wear. For continuous cycling or tight positioning, a servo-driven rod actuator is more appropriate.
How to specify the IAI RCD micro cylinder
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right RCD micro cylinder variant or an equivalent:
- Supply voltage (V DC) and current limit (A)
- Force push and pull (N)
- Stroke (mm) and retracted length
- Speed under load (mm/s)
- Duty cycle (% on time)
- Feedback: limit switches, potentiometer, Hall or encoder
- Sealing (IP code) and temperature range (°C)
Common mistakes to avoid
- Running a 25% duty actuator continuously and overheating the motor
- Ignoring the drop in speed under load and voltage
- Not allowing for side loads in pivot mountings
- Assuming acme units always hold position under vibration
IAI RCD micro cylinder: frequently asked questions
What is the IAI RCD micro cylinder?
Micro ROBO Cylinder with a newly developed brushless DC motor, a 12 mm cross-section and a body as short as 60 mm, moving at up to 300 mm/s with up to 1 G acceleration. Published series figures include linear speed 300 mm/s. It is made by IAI Corporation; Specify Motion can help source it or propose an equivalent.
Who makes the IAI RCD micro cylinder?
The IAI RCD micro cylinder is made by IAI (IAI Corporation) and is listed here for engineers comparing options. Specify Motion is not affiliated with IAI Corporation; brand names are used only to identify the product.
What is the linear speed of the IAI RCD micro cylinder?
The published series maximum linear speed is 300 mm/s. Individual models and sizes in the RCD micro cylinder range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
Is there an alternative to the IAI RCD micro cylinder?
Yes. On published figures, G-Series Leadscrew Linear Actuator and Tolomatic ERD (incl. ERD-SS1 / ERD-SS2 stainless options) are the closest match from our supply network. An engineer confirms the fit against your application before recommending anything.
What does duty cycle mean for an electric actuator?
Duty cycle is the proportion of time the actuator can run without overheating, usually given as a percentage and a time window. A 25% rating means, for example, about two and a half minutes of running in every ten. Exceed it and the motor overheats. For continuous motion choose a unit rated for higher duty.
Do 12 V actuators hold their position when power is removed?
Many acme-screw compact actuators resist back-driving because of the screw and gear friction, and some add a brake. Ball screw versions are efficient and can back-drive under load. Vibration can still cause creep, so check the static holding force on the datasheet for the orientation and loads in your application.
Further reading: How to select a linear actuator · How to size a linear actuator · Linear actuators
Other compact actuator series
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